Pope gives crucifix to pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square

“Gazing upon Jesus Crucified, we gaze upon our salvation.”

Noting the September 14 feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, Pope Francis offered a crucifix to all the pilgrims who joined him Sunday for the midday Angelus in St. Peter’s Square.

Around 40,000 silver-plated metal crucifixes were distributed, along with a prayer card with the words (in English, Italian, and Spanish): “The Cross of Christ contains all the love of God; there we find his immeasurable mercy.” Pope Francis pronounced those words during the Way of the Cross held at the World Youth Day in Brazil on July 26, 2013.

“The crucifix is the sign of the love of God, who in Jesus gave his life for us,” the pope said before the crucifixes were handed out. “I invite you to accept this gift and place it in your homes, in your children’s rooms, or that of your grandparents.”

Pope Francis pointed out that it is “not an ornamental object.” He said the crucifix is “a religious sign meant for contemplation and prayer.”